A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
